The original Perry Mason television series, starring Raymond Burr, concluded its impressive run on September 4, 1966, with an episode titled “The Case of the Final Fade-Out.” This marked the end of a nine-season legal drama that captivated audiences and redefined the courtroom procedural genre.
A Look Back at the Closing Argument
“The Case of the Final Fade-Out” sees Perry Mason investigating the murder of a temperamental movie producer on a film set. As always, Mason is called upon to defend his client, an actress who finds herself as the prime suspect. True to form, Mason meticulously uncovers the truth, exposing the real killer and delivering justice in his signature style. The episode isn’t particularly different from the preceding 270; it maintains the established formula of courtroom drama, skillful cross-examination, and the triumphant revelation of the actual culprit. However, its historical significance as the series finale sets it apart.
The End of an Era: Why Perry Mason Concluded
While Perry Mason enjoyed considerable success, the decision to end the series likely stemmed from a combination of factors common to long-running television shows. These included:
- Raymond Burr’s commitment: After nine years, Burr may have desired to pursue other acting opportunities or simply sought a break from the demanding schedule of a weekly series.
- Shifting Television Landscape: Television tastes were evolving in the mid-1960s, with a growing interest in different genres and formats. While still popular, Perry Mason may have felt the pressure of these changes.
- Creative Burnout: Maintaining the quality and freshness of a series for nearly a decade is a monumental challenge. While the show remained engaging, the creative team may have felt they had exhausted the potential of the established format.
The ending, therefore, wasn’t necessarily a dramatic cancellation. It was a calculated decision to conclude a successful run on a high note, preserving the legacy of Perry Mason.
Perry Mason FAQs: Exploring the Legal Eagle’s Legacy
Here are some frequently asked questions about Perry Mason, providing further insight into the series and its enduring appeal:
What made Perry Mason so popular?
The popularity of Perry Mason rested on several key elements:
- Raymond Burr’s portrayal of Perry Mason: Burr’s commanding presence and intelligent interpretation of the character were central to the show’s success. He embodied the ideal of a righteous and unwavering defender of justice.
- Intriguing and well-crafted plots: Each episode presented a unique and captivating mystery, filled with twists, turns, and suspenseful courtroom scenes.
- The satisfying formula of justice served: Viewers enjoyed the consistent resolution where Mason expertly exposed the true perpetrator, ensuring that the innocent were exonerated.
- Strong supporting characters: Della Street, Paul Drake, and Lieutenant Tragg provided valuable support and contributed to the overall dynamic of the show.
Was Perry Mason ever wrong?
While Perry Mason was portrayed as an exceptionally skilled attorney, he was not infallible. The series occasionally hinted at the emotional toll his cases took on him. While he always secured his client’s acquittal, there were instances where the moral implications of his actions were left ambiguous. However, the core narrative always ensured that Mason was defending someone he believed to be innocent, and he never knowingly allowed a guilty person to go free.
Who was Perry Mason’s secretary?
Perry Mason’s loyal and efficient secretary was Della Street, played by Barbara Hale. Della was more than just an assistant; she was a trusted confidante, an invaluable researcher, and often played a crucial role in helping Mason solve his cases.
What kind of car did Perry Mason drive?
Throughout the series, Perry Mason drove several different models of cars, primarily from General Motors. These included various models of Buick and Cadillac, reflecting his success and status as a prominent attorney. The specific make and model often changed from season to season.
What was Perry Mason’s relationship with Paul Drake?
Paul Drake, portrayed by William Hopper, was Perry Mason’s private investigator. Their relationship was one of mutual respect and reliance. Drake was responsible for gathering information, interviewing witnesses, and providing Mason with the critical evidence needed to build his case. They trusted each other implicitly, and Drake’s investigative skills were essential to Mason’s success.
Did Perry Mason ever lose a case?
In the original series, Perry Mason almost always won his cases. This became a signature element of the show. While the prosecution might present a seemingly airtight case, Mason consistently managed to uncover the truth and secure an acquittal for his client. This consistent success contributed significantly to the show’s popularity.
Who created Perry Mason?
Perry Mason was created by Erle Stanley Gardner, a prolific American author who wrote over 80 novels featuring the character. Gardner was a lawyer himself, which lent authenticity and credibility to his legal thrillers.
How many episodes of the original Perry Mason were there?
The original Perry Mason television series, which ran from 1957 to 1966, comprised a total of 271 episodes.
Were there any Perry Mason movies?
Yes, before the television series, there was a series of Perry Mason movies in the 1930s. These films starred actors like Warren William and Donald Woods in the role of Perry Mason. These movies predated the iconic portrayal by Raymond Burr.
What happened to the cast of Perry Mason after the show ended?
After Perry Mason ended, Raymond Burr continued his acting career, most notably starring in Ironside. Barbara Hale reprised her role as Della Street in the Perry Mason television movies that began in the 1980s. William Hopper unfortunately passed away in 1970.
Why was the Perry Mason revival series different from the original?
The Perry Mason revival series, which premiered on HBO in 2020, offered a darker and more gritty portrayal of the character. The new series depicted Perry Mason’s origins as a struggling private investigator in 1930s Los Angeles, a stark contrast to the confident and established lawyer of the original series. The tone, style, and character development differed significantly, reflecting a more contemporary and complex approach to storytelling.
How can I watch old episodes of Perry Mason?
Old episodes of Perry Mason are widely available on various platforms:
- Streaming services: Check popular streaming services like Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu for availability.
- DVD box sets: The complete series is available on DVD, allowing you to watch episodes at your leisure.
- Television reruns: Keep an eye on classic television channels that may occasionally air reruns of the series.
The Enduring Legacy of a Legal Icon
Perry Mason remains a beloved and influential legal drama, continuing to captivate audiences with its compelling stories, memorable characters, and the satisfying assurance of justice being served. “The Case of the Final Fade-Out” marked the end of an era, but the character and the show’s legacy live on through reruns, DVD releases, and the enduring fascination with the world of courtroom drama. The show’s impact on the genre is undeniable, and its continued popularity speaks to its timeless appeal. The series provided a template for countless legal dramas that followed, and Raymond Burr’s portrayal of Perry Mason remains the gold standard for lawyers on television.